northern spotted owl

Ornithologists, or scientists who study birds, want to prevent the forests of the Pacific Northwest from being chopped down for lumber. Why? Because these forests are home to the northern spotted owl, one of three kinds of spotted owls. In 1990, this bird was added to the Threatened Species List. Now it is illegal to destroy its habitat.

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What does the northern spotted owl's call sound like?

"Who, hoo-hoo, hooo!"

"Noodle, noodle, zoooo!"

"Goo-ey, rat-tat, too-ee!"

Correct!

The northern spotted owl's call sounds like "Who, hoo-hoo, hooo!" They'll let out a warning call even during the day when they're asleep if they think something's trespassing on their territory.

Fact or Fiction

Unlike most wild animals, northern spotted owls have little fear of humans.

Fact

Fiction

Fact

There are no animals in the forest that hunt northern spotted owls, so humans don't seem like a threat to them, either.

Fact or Fiction

Northern spotted owls are excellent nest builders.

Fact

Fiction

Unlike many birds, the northern spotted owl doesn't build a nest. This owl lays her eggs in openings in old trees, or uses a nest left by another animal.

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Image credits: main image, courtesy of AMNH; George Barrowclough, courtesy of Chuck Myers.

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